Trapper's Cabin

Saturday, July 18, 2009S.V. CAMBRIA

This morning I hiked to Trapper’s Cabin by myself knowing the trail would be too difficult for Sally and beyond David’s interest as it’s described to be nearly impossible, not well-marked or maintained, and primitive. A couple of years ago, a man in his 20’s attempted the trek, fell down, broke his leg, and subsequently died. I wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting myself into but had decided early on to turn around if it got too dangerous. With a gain of nearly 2000 feet in elevation, it’s more of a climb than anything else and was the most challenging hike I’ve ever done, both mentally and physically. In many sections the trail rises 30 feet or more up nearly vertical rock outcroppings and the only way through is to clamber up and down natural ladders formed by exposed tree roots. With only distant orange and pink ribbons to guide me, I was careful never to lose sight of what little trail there was, stopping every few minutes to slow my heart rate and drink water. My determination almost failed me a time or two on the way up, but I took my time and finally arrived at a place where the forest ended along the base of a steep cliff and the path became more horizontal than vertical. A few hundred yards further and I was rewarded with an incredible bird’s-eye view of Princess Louisa Inlet, the collapsed remains of the log cabin, and a waterfall – all to myself. The hike down proved to be just as difficult as the climb up, but I was carrying an unbelievable feeling of accomplishment along with me for company which made the time pass more quickly. Four long hours after my departure, I returned to the boat both exhausted and exhilarated which kept me in a euphoric state the entire day and well into the next.